Final answer:
The phrase 'sedentary lifestyle' is believed to explain the rising prevalence of obesity in the United States, as convenience in modern life has led to more inactivity and poor dietary habits. P
Step-by-step explanation:
An increasingly sedentary lifestyle in the United States is believed to explain the growing prevalence of obesity. Lifestyle changes alongside advancements in technology and social environments have encouraged less physical activity and promoted faster, cheaper, yet unhealthier meals. In contrast to centuries past when food scarcity and strenuous daily life were the norm, modern conveniences have led to less worry about food availability and more about the epidemic of obesity and associated conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Statistics reveal a stark increase in obesity rates; in the 1990s, less than 10 percent of populations in most states were obese, but by 2010, the CDC reported nearly 36 percent of adults over 20 were obese, with higher concentrations in the southern states and rising levels of childhood obesity. This shift towards higher rates of noninfectious diseases correlates with the adoption of a sedentary lifestyle, characterized by increased screen time and poor dietary habits. Nonetheless, there is a growing movement towards embracing healthier eating and more active living to combat the obesity trend.